On the spot: Bill Romanowski

Bill Romanowski, 36, was deemed too old for the Broncos, just right for the Raiders. He's one of the Raiders' almost-over-if-not-already-over-the-hill gang.

The Raiders spent seven No. 1 draft choices on defensive players in the '90s and have only cornerback Charles Woodson and second-year safety Derrick Gibson to show for it. Bad actors and washouts Darrell Russell, Patrick Bates and Chester McGlockton never reached their potential.

Taking a page from the past, Al Davis hired Romanowski and former Super Bowl hero Mike Jones, defensive tackles John Parrella and Sam Adams, and safety Rod Woodson to join former imports such as Trace Armstrong to rejuvenate the defense.

Romanowski predicted the Raiders would win the division. He will have to play better than his replacement, Ian Gold, plays for Denver. He also will have to play better than ex-Kansas City linebacker Donnie Edwards plays for his new team, San Diego.

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